Advice from an ex-apprentice: Forge your own career path in financial services

I knew I wanted to work in financial services from an early age. While I was at school, I’d often spend evenings with my dad while he worked as a facilities supervisor at 125 Old Broad Street – formerly known as the Stock Exchange Tower. I’d look down on the nightlights of the financial hub of London and wish that one day I would work in one of those glass giants. I enjoyed seeing the rush of the office, from traders with six monitor set-ups to the executive meeting rooms where big deals were struck. I was set on it from that point onwards.

I realised my background was different to many other candidates. During the application process to big investment banks, other candidates would tell me they went to private schools and their parents worked in a high-profile bank or Big Four accountancy firm. I knew it would be an uphill battle for me. These candidates would have had insight days to help improve their grades for university and to show on their personal statements experience and interest in the industry. I had only ever attended state schools and had free school meals all the way until I left education.

I trusted in my own ability to make something of myself, but opting to do an apprenticeship over university was still a difficult choice. I come from an area where there is a lower-than-average percentage of young people going on to higher education, and I was always pushed to break that custom and go to university – to be the first in my family. Even though I’d received offers to attend the universities of my choice, I discovered apprenticeships in financial services and decided to apply to those instead of the traditional route into the industry.

I believe in the pros of an apprenticeship, such as earning while learning, having no student debt, and still receiving valuable qualifications. I also see it as a fast track to understanding the working world and how to communicate professionally.

Employers are interested in the people they are hiring and their drive and enthusiasm to learn. I now know that a degree in economics or quantitative maths is not necessarily a ‘guarantee’ into any company.

I feel I have an advantage over other jobseekers my age thanks to the experience I’ve gained in things as simple as presenting to a group of people, addressing senior management or discussing work performance.

Networking has been invaluable. The ability to connect with those in the seat just above me has allowed me to set my sights on the next jump in the career ladder. These connections also open doors you may never have seen before – from the best local breakfast cafe to discovering a job opening that you are interested in.

I’ve also benefited from working with mentors. Once I joined Charles Stanley, my support system was very strong, especially from those in charge of training and development in the HR department, as well as from my line manager. They have taught me many soft skills. I’m still learning more every day and I have no intention of stopping.

Jorge Millan Erazo joined Charles Stanley as an apprentice in the client data department while studying for his CISI level 3 Certificate in Investment Operations . He is now an onboarding associate with the firm.